Despite its three stories and 6,400-square-feet, the Stenberg home in the Ramble is far from ostentatious. Andy and Ursula Stenberg and their three children, Andrew, 11, Stefan, 8, and Kristin, 6, are the heart of this Cape Cod style house.

The family moved here from Florida three years ago after Andy retired. “We couldn’t find a neighborhood that could match the natural beauty of the Ramble, while offering all the conveniences of being in south Asheville,” says Andy.

As an All American Triathlete, Andy teaches a variety of classes at the Ramble’s Living Well Center, and the family enjoys nightly walks along the nature trails. Their home is aptly suited for their active lifestyle. The hub of this fully automated “smart” house is the open living area featuring the state-of-the-art kitchen, cozy dining area, and family room. “This is our favorite part of the house,” Ursula says. It is not overly decorated and the house has a refreshing lived-in feel.

The Stenbergs brought only the children’s beds and personal photos with them, and hired interior designer Shannon Berrey (shannonberrey.com) to outfit the home. “Ursula wanted to move but dreaded the work involved,” says Andy. “I told her she wouldn’t have to do a thing.” Ursula agreed and they had extensive conversations with Shannon about their lifestyle, tastes, and day-to-day needs. Shannon laughs remembering the inspiration they discussed was the beach house from the movie, Something’s Gotta Give, because it reminded Andy of his Long Island childhood home.

“Shannon did an amazing job,” says Ursula. “What makes this house feel like home are the memories we are creating.”

Shannon worked to create a comfortable home reflective of the Cape Cod style—elements of nature, light colors, simple design, minimal décor, and historical pieces for character. “The home was so beautiful to begin with, I found it easy and a lot of fun to do.”

Muted greens, tans, and grays in the main living area soften the stark white trim. Shannon used aged metal side tables to flank the wood stove and found a ten-foot antiqued Ralph Lauren harvest table that’s perfect for family dinners. For the front hall, she even found a clock similar to the one in the movie.

Professional and candid family photos are artfully hung on the walls. “This is what makes it home for me,” says Andy pointing to the smiling faces.”

A mud room and “command center” off the main living area keep everyone—and their things—organized with built-in cubbies and a large blackboard helps with schedules. The Stenbergs rely more on Ursula for the running of the home rather than their smart house gadgets, Andy jokes. There is even a spot for things belonging to Ace, the family’s black Labrador retriever.

The music room features a grand piano, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, and two matching leather chairs. Window treatments and accents are in elegant shades of silver, black, and gray. The master suite, with an indulgent bath and private deck, finish off the main floor. The shower creates a half circle along the back wall with doors on either end. Much like a waterfall, small glass tiles in bronze, copper, and blue flow from the front façade of the shower into the adjoining circular jetted tub.

The upstairs is a kid’s haven with a lounge area complete with television, study area, and separate rooms and baths Kirsten has a princess room, Andrew loves sports, and Stefan’s is filled with pictures of bugs. There is also a guest room with a bookcase that doubles as a secret door to a mother-in-law suite.

“We couldn’t be happier here,” says Andy. “We look forward to building many more memories in this house,” adds Ursula.